January 1, Political Memoirs Spark Speculation for 2026

Wyatt’s Take

• Politicians release memoirs to shape images ahead of midterms.
• Books give voters a rare look at their backgrounds and plans.
• Some authors may have bigger ambitions for 2028.

Heading into the 2026 midterms, politicians are lining up with new books, often just before campaign season heats up. These memoirs let voters see inside the lives of officials looking for higher office or trying to solidify their public reputations.

Some who write these books are openly eyeing the 2028 presidential race, while others may simply want to share their stories during a critical political moment. Publishing a book is a favored move for politicians who want to test the waters, sway public opinion, and set the stage for the next big campaign.

First up is Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, whose memoir “Where We Keep the Light: Stories From a Life of Service” details his path through public service.

Gov. Shapiro shares memories of family, hard campaigns, and real-life danger, like a politically motivated fire at the governor’s residence while his family was inside. He also talks about being considered as a running mate for Kamala Harris and the faith that guides him in tough moments.

“Through it all, Shapiro shares the stories of the people who have impacted him along the way and how they’ve taught him where we keep the light.”

Shapiro has drawn nationwide attention recently, speaking alongside Utah’s Governor Spencer Cox about political violence. He is up for reelection in 2026 and is already mentioned as a potential contender for president in 2028.

Next comes California’s Governor Gavin Newsom and his upcoming memoir, “Young Man in a Hurry.” Newsom calls the book a “truly vulnerable” account of his journey from childhood challenges to the rough world of politics. He faced undiagnosed dyslexia and bounced between his mom’s hard-working life and his dad’s high-powered social circles.

He shares moments from his time as San Francisco mayor, like issuing same-sex marriage licenses even when state law disagreed, and breaking ground on climate and gun initiatives. Newsom says,

“This might not be the book people expected me to write. It’s about something universal—the messiness of becoming who we are.”

Newsom has not shied away from questions about higher office and admits he has thought about running for president in 2028.

Senator Cory Booker’s new release, “Stand,” dives into his marathon 25-hour Senate speech and the importance of decisions made today for future generations. Booker now holds the record for the longest continuous Senate address, pushing past the mark set by Strom Thurmond in 1957.

His book expands on the subjects he spoke about, looking at how principle and persistence can define leadership and shape what comes next in America.

If you want to know who might move up the ladder or what candidates really stand for, these upcoming memoirs are worth a look.

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Wyatt Matters

Americans know that real leaders are measured not by headlines but by grit, truth, and what they learn from life’s trials. These memoirs give a peek behind the curtain, but folks in Middle America learn more by watching what leaders do than what they write.